Elite Traveler Spring 2024

LAND OF THE RISING SUN JAPAN

Soaring mountains, bustling markets, tranquil shrines, onsen hot springs, unique cuisine, centuries-old traditions and futuristic cityscapes — Japan is a land of contrasts, and there is so much to experience that it can be hard to squeeze it all in during one trip. Enter: Tully Luxury Travel. The itinerary planning expert can create a custom journey through the land of the rising sun with private guides to showcase the culture and history. Visit Tokyo and weave through the sprawling Tsukiji Market to indulge in local delicacies and enjoy a private sushi-making master class. Head north of Tokyo into the mountains to the town of Nikko — the scenery and sacred mountains have been the backdrop of Shinto and Buddhist worship since at least the 8th century. Visit the Toshogu Shrine and uncover the natural beauty of Nikko National Park with its lush forests and tumbling waterfalls. You can also immerse yourself in Japanese craftsmanship during two distinct private workshops. First, discover Kintsugi , the art of using gold to fi x broken pottery; it’s a component of the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi that embraces impermanence and fl aws. Then head to legendary swordsmith Yoshindo Yoshihara’s workshop and watch him shape a katana blade; Yoshihara’s work is on display in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. For a di ff erent pace, board Guntu, a fl oating ryokan with 19 rooms, as it glides along the coast of the Seto Inland Sea. The voyage begins in Hiroshima and includes visits to magical hidden corners and notable spots such as Naoshima, a renowned art destination you can explore with a private guide. Exploring new lands is thirsty work — quench your thirst at the Nishiyama Sake Brewery. Established in 1849, the brewery is set against Tamba’s scenic mountains and still creates sake using time-honored methods. Enjoy a sake pairing lunch in a traditional Japanese tatami room, surrounded by a private Japanese garden that is not accessible to the general public. Round o ff your Japanese adventure by staying at Moku Iseshima, a private villa perched on Masakijima Island. The owner of the villa is a skilled sushi master and can prepare sushi kaiseki using the freshest local seafood (if you wish, you can head out on a private fi shing trip to catch your own). Price on request. Contact Martha Jacobs, senior travel designer, marthaj@tullyluxurytravel.com, +1 855 360 7618, tullyluxurytravel.com

Photo Aaron Chen PS2/Shutterstock.com